Apple Sauce
A comforting, homemade apple sauce, slow-simmered with a hint of cinnamon and lemon. Perfectly sweet and tangy, it's a versatile side dish or a simple, wholesome dessert. Ready in under 30 minutes!
For 4 servings
6 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the apples by peeling, coring, and chopping them into roughly 1-inch pieces. This ensures they cook evenly.
- 2
Step 2
- a.In a medium saucepan or Dutch oven, combine the chopped apples, water, brown sugar, fresh lemon juice, cinnamon stick, and salt. Stir everything together until the apples are coated.
- 3
Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil
- a.Once it begins to bubble, immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- b.Stir occasionally to prevent the apples from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- c.The apples are ready when they are very tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- 4
Remove the pot from the heat
- a.Carefully take out and discard the cinnamon stick.
- 5
Mash the cooked apples to your desired consistency
- a.For a chunky sauce, use a potato masher or a fork directly in the pot. For a smoother, puréed sauce, use an immersion blender or carefully transfer the mixture to a standard blender.
- b.If using a standard blender, allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes before blending to avoid steam buildup.
- 6
Let the apple sauce cool for at least 10 minutes before serving
- a.It will thicken as it cools. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use a combination of apple varieties. A mix of a sweet apple (like Fuji or Gala) and a tart one (like Granny Smith or Braeburn) creates a more complex and balanced sauce.
- 2Don't skip the lemon juice! It's crucial for preventing the apples from browning and adds a bright, fresh flavor that cuts through the sweetness.
- 3If you prefer a no-sugar-added version, simply omit the brown sugar. The natural sweetness of the apples is often sufficient, especially if using sweet varieties.
- 4For a slow cooker version, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours, then mash as desired.
- 5The apple sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7-10 days, or frozen in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spiced Apple Sauce
Add a pinch of ground nutmeg, a pinch of allspice, or a whole star anise along with the cinnamon stick for a warmer, more complex spice profile.
Maple SweetenedMaple-Sweetened
Replace the brown sugar with an equal amount of pure maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness and flavor.
Pear & Apple SaucePear & Apple Sauce
Substitute half of the apples with ripe pears (like Bartlett or Bosc) for a delicious fruit combination. You may need less sugar as pears are naturally very sweet.
Unpeeled Apple SauceUnpeeled Apple Sauce
For extra fiber and a more rustic texture, leave the peels on the apples. This works best with organic apples. Mash well or use a blender for a smoother result.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
Apples are an excellent source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, particularly pectin. This fiber aids in digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness, and supports a healthy gut microbiome.
Packed with Antioxidants
Apples contain powerful antioxidants like Vitamin C and polyphenols such as quercetin. These compounds help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals and reduce inflammation.
Supports Heart Health
The soluble fiber in apples can help lower blood cholesterol levels. Additionally, the potassium content helps manage blood pressure, contributing to overall cardiovascular health.
Aids in Weight Management
Being low in calories and high in fiber and water, apple sauce can be a satisfying and nutritious snack or side dish that helps you feel full without consuming excess calories.
Frequently asked questions
Each half-cup serving of this apple sauce contains approximately 125-130 calories, primarily from the natural sugars in the apples and the added brown sugar.